ASGE Announces Launch of www.askasge.org and 1-866-305-ASGE: The Source for Digestive Health Information 6/1/2004
From: Tamaryn Wiggins of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, 630-570-5618 or twiggins@asge.org OAK BROOK, Ill., June 1 -- The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) is pleased to announce the launch of two new patient education outlets, http://www.askasge.org and 1-866-305-ASGE. www.askasge.org is a new one-stop website filled with GI health information from knowing when to have a colonoscopy to how to efficiently search for the most qualified physician. The phone line, 1-866-305-ASGE, provides callers the opportunity to talk to a live operator to find out answers to questions about digestive health, and also to assist in finding a qualified doctor for those who don't have access to the Internet. Hot topics such as CT Colonography (commonly known in the media as virtual colonoscopy) and issues related to the Prevention of Infection During Endoscopy will be featured in a patient-geared context. The website provides specific information about screening, endoscopic procedures, disease prevention and treatment options. This information is available with just a few clicks of the health consumer's mouse. "Why do you need to know the ASGE and log-on to www.askasge.org? It's simple," says Christopher J. Gostout, immediate past president (2003-4) of the ASGE. "The ASGE is the patient's advocate for safe and effective colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. CRC is a disease that can be prevented by a colonoscopy performed with the latest technology by the most well- trained ASGE physician." 1-866-305-ASGE is available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST Monday through Friday and gives callers without computer access the same information available on the website. It will also enable callers to find a qualified physician in their area without having to search on the internet or go through provider directories. ABOUT ASGE The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE), founded in 1941, is the preeminent professional organization dedicated to advancing the practice of Endoscopy. ASGE promotes the highest standards for endoscopic training and practice, fosters endoscopic research, recognizes distinguished contributions to Endoscopy, and is the foremost resource for endoscopic education. ASGE, with more than 7,500 physician members worldwide, serves the medical profession and the public by developing and advocating responsible positions for the benefits of patients, the public and medical professionals. ASGE publishes the leading peer-reviewed endoscopic journal, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (GIE), as well as a comprehensive member newsletter, ASGE News. |